When the funeral procession carrying Valentino Garavani’s body arrived at his Rome residence, public attention was drawn not only to his longtime partner in life and business, Giancarlo Giammetti. For the first time, two young men who had previously been known only within intimate circles were thrust into the spotlight—brothers Sean and Anthony Souza. Their appearance caused a real sensation: according to rumors, they may become the main heirs to the couturier’s vast fortune.
While the Italian flag fluttered mournfully above a half-empty Plaza de España and the windows of the Valentino boutique were draped in black, one question hung in the air: who were these two whom the maestro himself called his children? The answer proved just as intriguing as Valentino’s own life.
Family ties
Sean and Anthony are the sons of Carlos ‘Caca’ Souza, once the brilliant PR director of the fashion house, and model Charlene Shorto de Ganay. Their family’s story became closely intertwined with Valentino in the 1970s, when Carlos met the designer at a lively party in Rio de Janeiro. Their romance quickly grew into a strong friendship and eventually something more: Valentino became the godfather to both Carlos and Charlene’s sons, while Giancarlo Giammetti took on the role of their second mentor.
Over the years, this bond only grew stronger. Valentino and Giancarlo treated the brothers like their own children, inviting them to their lavish residences—from the Château Wideville near Paris to a villa in Rome. Summers were spent on the yacht TM Blue One, where the boys were not just guests but full-fledged members of the family. Despite the high-profile circle, Sean and Anthony always preferred to stay out of the spotlight, avoiding public attention and choosing not to have social media accounts.
A life beyond conventions
Sean, the elder brother, grew up in the world of haute couture and glamorous parties. After studying in London, he unexpectedly chose a spiritual path, traveling to India to practice yoga and meditation. His private life also drew attention: Sean is in a relationship with renowned model Raica Oliveira, and the couple is raising twin daughters.
Anthony, on the other hand, pursued a musical journey. He works as a DJ and has even been a sound engineer for the famed band Coldplay. His romance with influencer Khalidia El Assir Fernandez-Longoria became a topic for society columns. Interestingly, through their aunt Lilian Denise, the brothers are connected to the Thyssen dynasty: in 1967, she became the baron’s fourth wife, which adds another layer to their remarkable family history.
Legacy and intrigue
Valentino always emphasized that he considered the Souza brothers an extension of his family. He repeatedly promised to support them financially despite the lack of blood relation. For him and Giancarlo, these young men became the children they never had. After the designer’s death, it was Sean and Anthony who drew attention—now their names are discussed not only in fashion circles, but also in legal offices.
Valentino’s fortune is estimated at several hundred million euros. With no direct heirs, he secured the future of his wealth in advance, creating a complex network of trusts and fiduciary funds. Together with Giancarlo Giammetti, he structured a system meant to preserve not only the financial, but also the cultural heritage of the brand. Such an approach is rare even in haute couture, where dynasties usually pass businesses along family lines.
Family drama
The Souza brothers’ central role in the inheritance story has sparked strong emotions. Some argue that Valentino acted wisely by entrusting his legacy to those truly close to him. Others see it as a sign of the eccentricity that often defines great creators. But one thing is clear: Sean and Anthony are now more than just heirs—they are symbols of a new era for the fashion house, where personal ties outweigh formal titles.
Their story weaves together Brazilian roots, a European upbringing, and the spirit of Italian aristocracy in a unique way. Perhaps it is this blend that became the secret ingredient which led Valentino to entrust them with his greatest treasure—his name and the legacy built over decades.
RUSSPAIN reminds readers that Valentino Garavani is one of the most influential couturiers of the 20th and 21st centuries, and the founder of the legendary Valentino fashion house. His name has become synonymous with Italian elegance and luxury. Giancarlo Giammetti was not only his partner but also the brand’s chief strategist. Carlos Souza is a cult figure in the fashion world, and his sons, Sean and Anthony, are now in the spotlight thanks to their unique family history and potential inheritance.
